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The Anker SOLIX Solarbank 4 Pro is a substantial step up in storage and output for a balcony or small PV system: its 5,024 Wh battery accepts up to 5,000 W of solar input and can deliver a manufacturer-rated 2,500 W grid-tied output. In Notebookcheck’s hands-on test, it delivered about 4,250 Wh to the home before reaching a 5% reserve—useful performance, but not a standardized efficiency result. The main trade-offs are its 50 kg weight and installation rules: in the UK, Anker currently requires a hardwired installation by a Part P-registered electrician.
What the Solarbank 4 Pro is—and what it offers
Anker’s manufacturer model name is Solarbank 4 E5000 Pro. It combines a LiFePO4 battery with solar inputs and household power management. The manufacturer lists a 10-year warranty and a 15-year product lifespan; those are product claims, not independent durability findings.
| Specification | Solarbank 4 Pro | Source and qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Rated energy | 5,024 Wh (about 5.02 kWh) | Anker UK specification |
| Solar input | Up to 5,000 W across four MPPT inputs | Anker UK specification |
| Rated single-device output | 2,500 W | Anker UK specification; connection and local rules affect availability |
| Expansion | Up to 30 kWh total with five BP5000 batteries | Anker UK compatibility information |
| Protection rating | IP66 | Anker UK specification |
| Operating temperature | -20°C to 55°C | Anker UK specification |
| Dimensions and weight | 460 × 305 × 355 mm; 50 kg net | Anker UK specification |
The enclosure is compact for its storage capacity, but 50 kg makes placement and handling a practical issue. Plan where it will sit before delivery, especially if it must be carried up stairs or paired with expansion batteries.
How much energy does it deliver in practice?
Notebookcheck’s 2026 review measured about 4,250 Wh delivered to the home while the battery discharged from 100% to its configured 5% lower limit. The theoretical energy across that 95% state-of-charge range is about 4,773 Wh (5,024 Wh × 95%), so the measured delivery was roughly 89% of that figure in the test. That is a result from one setup, not a guaranteed usable-capacity rating.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
The reviewer also measured about 5,400 Wh entering the device during a grid-charge test and reported that roughly 13% of supplied energy did not end up in the battery. The outlet meter was uncalibrated, and the reviewer noted that results vary with charge and discharge power. These figures should not be treated as a standardized round-trip efficiency measurement or a prediction for every home.
Can it handle your solar panels?
The four independent MPPT trackers are designed to manage separate solar input channels. Anker specifies up to 1,250 W per input, a maximum PV input voltage of 60 V, and up to 5,000 W total input. Panel count depends on wiring: the manufacturer describes one panel per input for four panels, two panels in parallel per input for eight, or three in parallel per input for 12.
- Panel strings must be connected in parallel; Anker prohibits series connections.
- Keep each input within the specified voltage and current limits. Panel count alone does not establish compatibility.
- Follow the official installation documentation and have uncertain panel or adapter compatibility checked by a qualified professional.
What output can it provide, and how does backup work?
Three different output claims need to be kept separate. Anker lists a 2,500 W rated output for the single device. Its UK guidance says grid-tied output up to 2,500 W requires hardwiring, grid notification and an unlock process after installation evidence is submitted to Anker. The product page also describes an off-grid appliance port with a maximum of up to 2,990 W in certain conditions when the grid is present, including grid contribution above a 2,500 W device contribution. That port maximum is not the same as the grid-tied rating or outage output.
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Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
During an outage, Anker describes up to 2,500 W of backup from the internal battery. The system has a built-in UPS function and a manufacturer-stated 10 ms changeover, but the backup is for loads connected to the off-grid port within its limits. Anker says it does not provide whole-house three-phase backup, backup through the on-grid port, or whole-house supply through a Wieland socket during an outage.
Does UK installation require an electrician?
Yes, under Anker’s current UK product guidance. The company says the unit must be installed on a dedicated hardwired circuit by a Part P-registered electrician, who must notify the local Distribution Network Operator under G98 within 28 days. To enable 2,500 W grid output, Anker also requires notification and its verification/unlock process. Anker’s UK page says plug-in installation is not currently permitted, despite hardware designed to support it.
TechRadar reported on 27 August 2026 that plug-in solar panels had become legal in the UK on that date, while plug-in batteries discharging into a home circuit could not yet connect directly to an ordinary wall socket. Its report also said the Solarbank 4 Pro then required hardwiring by a Part P-registered electrician. This is dated UK reporting, not a rule for Germany, the wider EU or other countries. Check current requirements for your jurisdiction before installation.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What did the independent review find?
Notebookcheck’s extended hands-on review used seven panels with a combined rating of about 3.2 kWp. The reviewer first operated the system at 800 W grid feed-in, then at 2,500 W through a Wieland connection after registering it as a PV system. Those details describe the review configuration and do not substitute for local installation or grid rules.
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- On sunny summer days, the reviewer said near-total self-sufficiency was possible with enough panels. They also observed that the unit could start earlier and continue later in low-light conditions than it did during the test.
- Smart-meter response was described as quick, generally leaving only a few watts of excess or shortfall.
- In the test, the unit sustained 2,500 W charging at the Wieland outlet only for a while before dropping below 2 kW.
- The reviewer could assess AI mode only to a limited extent because they did not have a dynamic electricity tariff. The review does not establish savings from AI or tariff automation.
Notebookcheck disclosed that its test sample was loaned by the manufacturer or retailer. It said the lender had no influence on the review and had no pre-publication copy or publication veto.
Can you expand the battery later?
Anker’s UK compatibility list names the BP5000 expansion battery. Each module is listed at 5 kWh and 42 kg; up to five can be connected, adding as much as 25 kWh to the base unit for a listed system total of 30 kWh. That makes expansion possible, but also increases the weight and footprint of the installation.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Notebookcheck also mentioned an older BP2700 as compatible, but Anker’s current UK list names BP5000. Check compatibility for your market and firmware before buying an older expansion unit rather than assuming it will work.
What changes when you add a smart meter?
For the UK, Anker lists the Smart Meter A17X7 and Smart Meter Gen 2 as compatible. Without a compatible meter, household load monitoring and advanced management are restricted: Anker says only Custom Mode remains available, and anti-backflow functionality is unavailable. With a compatible meter, the manufacturer lists Smart, Self-Consumption, TOU and Dynamic Tariff modes, along with anti-backflow support.
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Notebookcheck’s published comparison shows a substantial increase in capacity and power for the Solarbank 4 Pro, along with a marked increase in weight. These are the listed specifications, not results from a controlled head-to-head test.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
| Specification | Solarbank 3 Pro | Solarbank 4 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 2,688 Wh | 5,024 Wh |
| Maximum PV input | 3,600 W | 5,000 W |
| AC output | 1,200 W | 2,500 W |
| Maximum expansion capacity | 16 kWh | 30 kWh |
| Protection rating | IP65 | IP66 |
| Weight | 29.2 kg | 50 kg |
Price and buying considerations
Notebookcheck listed a German manufacturer’s suggested retail price of €1,999 in its 2026 review and said it was available through Anker and Amazon.de, sometimes with discounts or bundles. This is Germany-specific review-era information, not a current price or a guide to prices in other markets.
Before deciding, compare the total installed cost—not just the battery price—with the PV capacity you can connect, compatible expansion and meter costs, local installation requirements, and where a 50 kg unit can be placed. For alternatives, compare usable capacity, MPPT voltage and current limits, permitted grid output, backup-port behavior, efficiency measured at comparable power levels, and compatibility with your existing panels and meters.
Quick Recap
Sources and market-specific details
- Anker SOLIX UK product page and FAQ — manufacturer specifications, accessories, compatibility and UK installation guidance, current when accessed 7 October 2026. The page reproduces this statement as an official ENA statement: “This device has been assessed by ENA’s engineers and has been deemed acceptable for use by Distribution Network Operators.” It gives type-test reference ANKER/19908/V1 for the UK 2.5 kW model; the wording here is attributed to Anker’s page, not to an independent check of the ENA register.
- Marcus Schwarten, Notebookcheck, published 27 August 2026 and updated 5 October 2026 — hands-on test, measurements, comparison and review-era German price.
- Cat Ellis, TechRadar, published 27 August 2026 — dated reporting on UK plug-in solar and battery installation rules.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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